Lidl-Trek is set to tackle Omloop Het Nieuwsblad with a well-balanced squad, blending experience, power, and youthful energy. With leaders like Jasper Stuyven, Toms Skujiņš, and Edward Theuns, backed by a strong supporting cast, the team is eager to make an impact on the Flemish cobbles.
Toms Skujiņš delivered one of the most talked-about moments in last year’s Omloop when he dropped Wout van Aert on the Berendries. It was a breakthrough ride, even if the final result didn’t quite match the performance. “I have great memories from last year—I surprised myself and the team with how strong I was. The result was maybe a bit disappointing, so I hope to improve on that this time,” he says.
This year, the Latvian is looking forward to another shot at the race, backed by a strong Lidl-Trek squad. “We have some guys who are already showing great form. Mathias Vacek proved himself in Algarve, climbing well and performing in the time trials. There are some younger guys stepping up, and when you combine them with experienced riders who have already proven themselves, I really think we have an even stronger team than last year.”
Jasper Stuyven also feels optimistic about the team’s potential, though he acknowledges that one key rider is missing. “On paper, we have a stronger team than last year, but it’s unfortunate that Søren Kragh Andersen is out. That might mean we’re about the same level as last year. That said, everyone has another year of experience under their belt, so hopefully, we’ve improved. Last year, the entire team had a perfect winter and arrived in top form. Hopefully, that’s the case again this year, then we’ll definitely be just as strong across the board. But we’ll have to wait and see.”
Individually, Stuyven is satisfied with his current shape. “My condition is similar to where it was at this time last year. Does that mean I’ll be at my peak for Omloop? Probably not, but the foundation is there. A lot will depend on how I feel on race day.”
One thing he’s certain about is his favorite part of the course. “The Haaghoek remains one of my favorite sectors. We pass it multiple times, the crowds are always big, and it really feels like the true start of the season among the fans.”
Stuyven: ‘The Haaghoek is where the race truly begins’
A team ready for battle
Alongside Stuyven and Skujiņš, Lidl-Trek brings a balanced and powerful squad to Omloop Het Nieuwsblad. Tim ‘El Trektor’ Declercq and Daan Hoole are the team’s two big engines, driving the pace and keeping the race under control. Edward Theuns adds a wealth of experience on these demanding Flemish roads, knowing exactly what it takes to navigate the chaos of the Classics, while young Tim Torn Teutenberg gets his first taste of the spring Classics.
Vacek: 'The Classics here are completely different from any other race. The cobbles, the narrow roads, the fans, the rough weather… These are the most special races of the year.'
Mathias Vacek is another rider eager to make his mark. “Being part of such a strong team is really special,” he says. “We have so many strong guys, and I feel the responsibility to prove myself in the Classics. There’s pressure, but it mostly gives me motivation to perform at my best.” The young Czech talent has already shown strong early-season form and is determined to contribute to the team’s success. “The atmosphere between the riders is great. We understand each other well and work together towards the same goal.”
For Vacek, racing in Flanders is unlike anything else on the calendar. “The Classics here are completely different from any other race. The cobbles, the narrow roads, the fans, the rough weather… These are the most special races of the year. It’s full-on entertainment from start to finish. Anything can happen at any moment. You have to stay at the front and embrace the adrenaline. I love racing here, even though these are the hardest races of the season. You can be as prepared as possible, but you never know how the race will unfold. I can’t wait to get started.”
With a mix of seasoned leaders, powerhouse domestiques, and rising talents, Lidl-Trek heads into Opening Weekend with confidence and ambition. The riders are eager to kick off the Classics season and put their hard work to the test on the Flemish roads. With the passionate Belgian fans creating an electric atmosphere, the team is ready to embrace the challenge. We hope to see many supporters at the start in ’t Kuipke in Ghent and lining the course, cheering us on as we take on the first big race of the year.
